In latest entry in our Women in Mobility Spotlight series, highlighting members of our Women in Mobility Peer Group, we connected with Mackenzie Habash, Senior Program Manager in the Automobility & Innovation Centre at Invest WindsorEssex.
Known for driving transformative initiatives, Mackenzie leads high-impact programs that propel advancements in automotive technology, cybersecurity, and industry 4.0, empowering startups and SMEs across North America to accelerate growth. Her leadership has been pivotal in securing multi-million-dollar grants that fuel the Windsor-Essex region’s tech ecosystem. Mackenzie holds an Honours Bachelor of Science in Economics from the University of Windsor and a Certificate in Big Data Analytics from York University. Passionate about future talent, she champions diversity in tech through Women in Mobility and mentors young innovators with FIRST Robotics.
What does ‘mobility’ mean to you?
In the context of my work, “mobility” represents the evolving landscape of how people and goods move, emphasizing sustainable, intelligent, and connected transportation solutions. It involves reimagining traditional automotive systems to incorporate cutting-edge technology, such as electric and autonomous vehicles, as well as integrating cybersecurity, data-driven decision-making, and industry 4.0 standards.
Mobility goes beyond vehicles—it’s about building an ecosystem that supports efficient, safe, and environmentally conscious transit on a broader scale. For me, it’s also about fostering innovation within the sector to create jobs, drive economic growth, and build a more resilient, tech-driven future that meets the needs of diverse communities.
What motivated you to pursue a career or interest in the mobility industry?
My motivation to pursue a career in the mobility industry stems from a fascination with technology’s potential to transform everyday life and drive meaningful societal impact. Mobility, especially within the realm of automobility and innovation, represents an intersection where technology, sustainability, and human experience converge. I’m inspired by the chance to contribute to advancements that make transportation safer, smarter, and more efficient, ultimately reshaping how we connect and interact with the world around us.
Additionally, working in mobility allows me to be at the forefront of solving complex challenges related to urbanization, environmental impact, and the future of work. The opportunity to support startups and SMEs in this space excites me, as they are often the drivers of groundbreaking innovation. Knowing that my efforts can help accelerate their growth and bring transformative solutions to market fuels my passion for the industry.
What is your favorite project that you’ve worked on in the industry or classroom?
One of my favourite projects has been building and managing the Windsor-Essex Regional Technology Development Site (RTDS), funded by the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network. This initiative has been incredibly rewarding because it allows me to support startups at all stages of their journey, from ideation to scaling.
The RTDS has provided a unique platform to bring together industry, academia, and government support, creating a collaborative ecosystem that fosters innovation in the mobility sector. Watching these startups grow and seeing their innovations take shape has been deeply fulfilling, as it reinforces the impact that strategic guidance, resources, and mentorship can have on emerging businesses. This project exemplifies the kind of work I’m passionate about—driving impactful change and empowering innovators to realize their potential.
Going back to what ‘mobility’ means to you, what do you think is the biggest challenge or obstacle facing the industry today?
One of the biggest challenges facing the mobility industry today is the need to transition to sustainable and connected solutions while balancing the economic, infrastructural, and societal implications. Achieving widespread adoption of electric and autonomous vehicles, for example, requires significant advancements in infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, and public trust. There’s also the challenge of addressing cybersecurity, as increasingly connected and autonomous systems become more susceptible to cyber threats.
Moreover, the rapid pace of innovation often outstrips the ability of existing policies and infrastructure to keep up. This creates barriers for startups and SMEs that are trying to bring transformative solutions to market, as they navigate complex regulatory landscapes and high costs. Finding ways to support these innovators—through funding, mentorship, and industry collaboration—while also fostering public-private partnerships to advance infrastructure and policy is essential to overcoming these obstacles.
How do you see the role of women evolving in the mobility industry in the future, and what changes would you like to see?
The role of women in the mobility industry is evolving as the sector increasingly recognizes the value of diverse perspectives in driving innovation and solving complex challenges. As mobility expands to include cutting-edge fields like autonomous vehicles, AI, and sustainable transport solutions, there is a growing need for talent with varied backgrounds, skills, and viewpoints. Women have a crucial role to play in shaping the future of mobility, bringing insights that enhance user-centric design, ethical considerations, and inclusive development.
However, there’s still work to be done to create a truly equitable environment. In the future, I hope to see more women in leadership roles, decision-making positions, and technical fields within the industry. I’d also like to see stronger support systems, such as mentorship programs and inclusive hiring practices, to help women enter and advance in traditionally male-dominated areas like engineering and data science.
For this change to happen, industry leaders need to prioritize diversity and inclusion, not just as values but as active parts of their strategic objectives. I’m passionate about initiatives like Women in Mobility, as they create a supportive community that encourages women to grow, connect, and make a meaningful impact in the industry. By fostering these networks and promoting diversity in hiring and leadership, we can help build a more inclusive, innovative future in mobility.
Can you share any personal experiences or anecdotes that highlight the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion in the mobility space?
Though this isn’t a personal experience, one story that really underscores the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the mobility space is the project led by an all-women team at General Motors in the early 2000s. This team, responsible for designing the Pontiac Montana Minivan, approached the vehicle’s design from the perspective of daily challenges that women and families often face, which traditional design teams had sometimes overlooked.
The innovations they introduced were practical yet impactful: adjustable pedals and seating for drivers of different heights, enhanced visibility through better sightlines, intuitive storage solutions, and advanced child safety seat anchors. Each of these features addressed real needs that improved safety, comfort, and usability. By designing from a broader perspective, they created a vehicle that resonated with a wider audience and addressed everyday user needs in a way that felt truly inclusive.
This project showed me how critical diversity is to innovation. When we bring in a variety of voices—especially in an industry that serves diverse people with unique needs—we end up with solutions that work better for everyone. It’s a powerful reminder that diverse teams don’t just enhance creativity; they enable us to create safer, more accessible, and user-friendly products that better serve our entire population. This example inspires my commitment to fostering inclusion in mobility because, as it shows, diverse perspectives truly drive meaningful progress.
What advice would you give to young women who are interested in pursuing a career in mobility and/or tech?
To young women interested in pursuing a career in mobility or tech, my advice is to embrace curiosity, build a strong network, and believe in the unique value you bring to the table. Mobility and tech are dynamic, evolving fields where diverse perspectives are critical to driving innovation. Don’t let the challenges of entering a traditionally male-dominated space discourage you—instead, view it as an opportunity to shape the industry’s future.
Seek out mentors and allies who can support you along the way. Finding people who believe in you, share insights, and open doors to new opportunities can make a huge difference. Look for communities like Women in Mobility and similar groups that focus on empowering women in these fields. Surrounding yourself with a supportive network will help you feel more confident and connected, and it can introduce you to others who have navigated similar paths.
Also, don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Say yes to projects that stretch your skills, and take on roles where you can learn and grow. Building resilience and adaptability is key in tech and mobility, where things move fast and innovation requires constant learning. Remember that your perspective, skills, and voice matter. Stay curious, keep learning, and trust in your potential to make an impact.
Are there any specific resources, organizations, or networks that have been valuable to you in your professional journey within the mobility/tech industry?
Yes, several resources and networks have been invaluable to my professional journey in mobility and tech. One of the most impactful has been Women in Mobility, which has provided a supportive community and opened up opportunities to connect with other women who are shaping the industry. This network has allowed me to exchange insights, share experiences, and collaborate on initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion in mobility.
Another valuable resource has been the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN), which has not only supported projects like the Windsor-Essex RTDS but also offers OVIN Learn, an educational platform designed to build knowledge and skills in connected and autonomous vehicle technology, electric vehicles, and industry standards. This platform has been an excellent resource for accessing up-to-date information and training, allowing me to deepen my expertise and stay aligned with industry advancements.
How do you stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and advancements?
Staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and advancements is essential in a rapidly evolving field like mobility. I prioritize continuous learning through a mix of hands-on experience, industry resources, and professional networks.
I attend industry conferences and expos where I can connect with thought leaders, explore new technologies, and gain insights into cutting-edge developments. Networking within groups like Women in Mobility and collaborating with startups at the Windsor-Essex RTDS also exposes me to a variety of perspectives and innovations.
I also leverage LinkedIn for quick updates on industry news and emerging trends, connecting with professionals across the mobility and tech sectors.
Finally, I dedicate time to reading industry reports, publications, and research papers, which provide deeper insights and enable me to bring forward-looking ideas to my work.
What is one thing that you wish more people knew about the mobility industry, and why?
One thing I wish more people knew about the mobility industry is just how much it impacts daily life beyond traditional vehicles. Mobility encompasses a wide range of innovations, from smart city infrastructure and electric vehicle charging networks to autonomous systems and cybersecurity. These advancements are shaping not only how we move but also how we interact with technology, address environmental challenges, and design our cities for the future.
Understanding this broader scope is important because it highlights the industry’s role in tackling global issues like sustainability and urbanization. Mobility isn’t just about cars; it’s about creating a more connected, efficient, and inclusive world. By recognizing the industry’s impact, more people could appreciate the value of investing in these technologies and supporting policies that drive sustainable progress.
Check out more Spotlights in our Women in Mobility Spotlight series, highlighting members of our Women in Mobility Peer Group, as well as our Women in Tech Spotlight, that highlights women in the Windsor-Essex and Chatham-Kent tech community.
